Moving to Hong Kong

Expats moving to Hong Kong will find deep tradition at the foundations of the city's towering skyscrapers and neon lights, in a place where East truly does meet West, resulting in a unique cultural mix. Some things may feel fairly familiar to Westerners who are new to Hong Kong, while others will be entirely foreign.

On the whole, many expats find it relatively easy to live in Hong Kong, with its efficient infrastructure and amenities. The territory has an advanced healthcare system, an elevated standard of schooling and an exemplary public transport system that all serve to significantly decrease the burden of transition. Once some of the wrinkles of relocation have been ironed out, expats will also find themselves able to appreciate the city's high levels of safety and practically unlimited entertainment.

The bustle never stops in Hong Kong’s densely populated centre. The former British colony has one of the world's most successful capitalist economies and is known for being one of Asia's fiscal tigers, perched near the top of global economic rankings. At the same time, however, only a fraction of the Fragrant Harbour is developed, which allows expats who yearn for nature amidst the asphalt to escape and enjoy their natural surroundings.

However, while ostentatious luxury and a devotion to quality are still part of its richly woven fabric, Hong Kong doesn't necessarily offer the same lucrative employment packages it used to. As the cost of living continues to climb, vast wealth is becoming less attainable for anyone other than the most senior employees. High living costs and limited prospects are also proving a deterrent for expats who don’t already have employment in the region secured.

Accommodation, in particular, is characterised by sky-high price tags for disproportionately small spaces. Expats are advised to attempt to negotiate a housing allowance or, at least, to carefully consider the cost of renting in Hong Kong before signing a contract.

Expats will also have to face other challenges in Hong Kong. Over 7 million people are packed into the archipelago, and the preciousness of elbow room becomes fully appreciated as members of the population frenetically whizz past. Air pollution has also unceremoniously drifted down from the factories of southern China and has come to settle over and around the city's upward-reaching skyline. As overwhelming and unattractive as this may be to some, however, fresh air and open spaces can always be found outside the expat-friendly central area.

Hong Kong has many layers and expats will find that just as they’ve finished pulling back one layer, more swiftly take shape. Whether they feel safer in the insular yet comfortable expat scene or prefer to explore the indigenous culture of this age-old port city, an exciting and invigorating experience is guaranteed.

Expat Interviews

"People in Hong Kong are very used to people coming and going. The population is very transient, so it is second nature to welcome newcomers in Hong Kong." Read more of Leslie's comments about life in Hong Kong.

"I adore my host city. It's been two and a half years, and the love affair has yet to wear off." Read Lisa's full interview about her experience as an expat in Hong Kong.

"It is much more expensive in Hong Kong, especially the rent which is up to four times more expensive." Read our interview with Alison, a British expat living in Hong Kong.

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